PCB 50-over Tri-Series: Pakistan Women cruise to final

Captain Sana, Javeria shine in seven-wicket win over Ireland.

KARACHI: Pakistan Women advanced into the final of the Triangular 50-over Tournament after outclassing Ireland by seven wickets at the West End Park Stadium in Doha on Monday.

Captain Sana Mir crafted the win, in what was the third successive victory for her team in the event.

Sana’s fiery figures of three for 11 from nine overs helped the hosts bowl out Ireland for a mere 92 runs after they elected to bat first.

Irish captain Isobel Joyce (36) and opener Clare Shillington (20) were the only batsmen to reach double figures.

Apart from the Pakistan skipper, Sadia Yousuf took two wickets while Nahida Khan, Nida Dar and Qanita Jalil claimed a wicket each.

In reply, Pakistan achieved the target in 26 overs, with Javeria Khan leading the run-chase with an unbeaten knock of 51 from 86 balls. Sidra Ameed and Nahida scored 16 and 12 runs respectively.

Earlier, Pakistan had trounced Ireland by 110 runs in the opening match of the tournament.

Pakistan record impressive win over South Africa

Earlier, Pakistan registered an impressive four-wicket victory against tough opponents South Africa on Sunday.

The national squad displayed a disciplined bowling show to restrict their opponents to only 125 for eight in the allotted 50 overs.

Nida, who ended with match figures of four for 15 from her quota of ten overs, was the pick of the bowlers. Asmavia Iqbal, Qanita Jalil, Sumaiya Siddiqi and Sana took a wicket apiece.

Chasing the target, Pakistan recorded victory in the last over, spurred with Bismah Maroof’s half-century.

Apart from Bismah’s 60 from 133 deliveries, Javeria Khan (29) was the other main contributor.

It was just the second ODI victory for Pakistan against South Africa.

South Africa will play Ireland on Tuesday, and the result will confirm the second finalist. The last league match will be played between Pakistan and South Africa before the final on January 17.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 14^th, 2014.

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